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Library Circulation Desk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

Town of Needham

Library Circulation Assistant

Needham, MA · On-site

$28.09 - $30.80/hr

Under the direction of the Library Circulation Supervisor, this position provides direct patron services at the circulation desk for library card registration, borrowing/returning of materials, and ...

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Library Circulation Desk information

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How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation desk in the United States is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library circulation desk?

Library circulation desk jobs involve assisting patrons with checking out and returning library materials, managing library accounts, answering basic information inquiries, and handling fines or fees. Staff at the circulation desk also help maintain the organization of library resources, issue library cards, and may assist with shelving items. These positions require good customer service skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with library systems. Circulation desk staff are often the first point of contact for library visitors and play a key role in ensuring a positive library experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library circulation desk clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation Desk Clerk, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and familiarity with library practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency with integrated library systems (ILS) like SirsiDynix or Koha and basic office software is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and patience help you assist patrons effectively and manage challenging situations. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and the smooth handling of library materials.

What are the typical challenges faced at the library circulation desk, and how can they be managed effectively?

Working at the library circulation desk often involves handling a high volume of patron interactions, managing book checkouts and returns, and addressing inquiries about library resources. Common challenges include efficiently resolving overdue fines, managing holds or reservations, and assisting patrons with varying levels of familiarity with library technology. Effective communication, patience, and strong organizational skills are essential for balancing multiple tasks and providing excellent customer service. Regular collaboration with librarians and other staff also helps ensure smooth library operations and enhances the overall patron experience.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Desk vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary Circulation DeskLibrary Assistant
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging checkouts, returns, overdue items, and patron inquiries at the circulation deskSupporting library operations, shelving, assisting patrons, and administrative tasks
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library certificationsHigh school diploma; relevant experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFront desk area within the library, interacting directly with patronsVarious areas including circulation, shelving, and patron assistance

The Library Circulation Desk primarily handles checkouts, returns, and patron inquiries at the front desk, while Library Assistants support broader library functions including shelving and patron support. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in the same environment, but their specific duties differ.

Is it hard to get hired at the library?

Getting hired as a library circulation desk clerk typically involves applying through the library's employment process, which may include an interview and background check. Candidates often need good customer service skills, basic computer knowledge, and sometimes prior experience or a high school diploma. Competition varies depending on the location and the number of available positions.
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Library Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Desk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,193 per year, or $16 per hour.

Work Study MO Library Circulation Desk

ATSU Work Study

Kirksville, MO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description:

 The A.T. Still Memorial Library supports the training of future health care professionals to effectively access and use the best evidence/information available to enable them to provide the highest quality of health care possible. Thus, the Library provides services, resources, and evidence-based collections that support both the students in the educational and clinical activities and the faculty in their teaching and research.

Work-Study Students report to the Libraries Public Services/3D Print Services Manager. Work-Study responsibilities generally fall into the following areas:

1. Circulation desk
2. Outreach/Customer Service
3. Duties as assigned
4. Basic housekeeping

Circulation Desk:
1. Checking in/out books, media, OMM/OTM tables, White Boards, etc. for students, faculty, and staff either through the libraries Sierra system or by hand if the system is down.
2. Making sure that all printers and copiers are filled with paper each shift and staplers are filled each shift.
3. Answering phones, taking messages, or transferring calls to the appropriate voicemail.
4. Opening and closing the library on nights and weekends.
5. Reshelve books.

Outreach/Customer Service:
1. Help students, faculty, and staff with online library catalog searches.
2. Help patrons with interlibrary loan requests (showing patrons how to request articles or books.)
3. Handling emergency procedures.
4. Help patrons with printers/copiers/computer issues.

Duties as assigned:
1. Light housekeeping duties. (i.e. keeping the circulation desk clean, emptying trash on the weekends, dusting shelves, etc.)
2. Help with library exhibits and open houses.
3. When possible, helping to fill in when the circulation staff is on vacation.
4. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:  Good academic standing, detail-oriented, able to follow directions and self-starter

Skills: Training will be given

Special characteristics: Friendly and helpful attitude, responsible, detail-oriented, able to follow directions while supervision is not there, punctual.

Number of Students Needed: 10-12

Times Needed: Monday - Thursday, 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm, 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm, and 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Days Needed: Monday - Friday and weekends

Physical Requirements: Normal

Additional Physical Requirements:

Requirements:

A.T. University (ATSU) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities.